On Monday, January 22, 2024, Stockton University President Joe Bertolino announced via a mass email that the Compass Fund would be temporarily paused for the Spring 2024 Semester.

In his statement, Bertolino explained that the decision to suspend the Compass Fund for the upcoming cycle is driven by the University’s commitment to gaining a clearer understanding of the institutional budget. He emphasized that, “It is in the University’s best interest not to commit to large investments for new ideas rather than possibly approve new projects and have to pull back funds after July 1.”

This development adds to Stockton’s ongoing challenges in funding and budgetary matters. In 2023, Bertolino disclosed that the University faced $10 million debt, with a projected $12 million in debt by the end of Fiscal Year 2024. Consequently, this financial strain has led to cutbacks in shuttle services across the Galloway Campus, tuition hikes, and increased meal plan prices.

In an interview with The Argo last week, Bertolino shed light on Stockton’s financial struggles and expressed hope for revenue growth through enrollment programs for high school students. He particularly highlighted the success of the dual enrollment program, which currently involves almost 2000 high school students. Bertolino stressed the need to focus on increasing enrollment yield, stating, “You’re taking Stockton courses. You’re getting Stockton credit. Now, I need you to come.”

Despite the challenges, Bertolino remains optimistic about the program’s revival, expressing gratitude for the campus community’s continued efforts to improve Stockton. He stated, “I appreciate your understanding and am hopeful that once we have thoroughly reviewed and evaluated the institutional budget, we will reinstate this wonderful program.”

Projects approved through the Compass Fund since the Spring 2022 semester encompass a diverse range of initiatives, including addressing student retention, supporting educational events, and fostering cultural engagement. Noteworthy projects include Zeroing Out Student Textbook Costs, Science Enrichment Academy at Stockton, and the LEAD Pathways to Publishing.

Since its establishment, the Compass Fund has contributed over $200,000 in funding to various programs, enriching Stockton with inclusive and diverse studies and activities throughout students’ degree programs.

Additional information about the Compass Fund can be accessed here.